Ethiopia eyes 2 million tourists in 2025, with strengthened focus on India

Ethiopia, a diverse and historically rich country in the Horn of Africa welcomed about a million tourists in 2024 and is now targeting 2 million in 2025, Seleshi Girma, State Minister of Tourism, tells India Outbound. Girma adds that Ethiopia sees India as a key market and is planning participation in travel trade fairs as well as organising FAM trips.

- RANVIR NAYAR

Q How was 2024 for Ethiopia in terms of tourism?

Ethiopia, this year has seen the development of more emerging tourist destinations than ever before. As shown in the videos and photos, new palaces have opened and historic palaces have been restored for tourism. Additionally, public parks, museums and other tourist sites have been upgraded. At the same time, efforts are being made to conserve historical and cultural sites, as well as nature parks and wildlife. Infrastructure, tourist facilities and accommodations have expanded, with new franchises and international hotel chains entering the market. Both the government and the private sector are working hard to strengthen tourism by improving infrastructure, enhancing facilities, promoting conservation and developing new tourist sites.

How many tourists did you receive in 2024?

We have received about a million tourists. I do not think it is too much compared to the potential we have. But it is a promising figure thinking that there were safety issues in the past and also Covid-19 pandemic but we are very happy that it has rebounded to the pre-pandemic levels and is showing increment. The other most important point in this figure is that our market used to be only Europe and North America. But now we receiving tourists from Africa, Asia including India and China. We are receiving visitors from East Europe and also from the Middle East. It is good that we have started to receive tourists from new emerging markets.

What is your target for 2025?